US and Iran exchange strikes as Tehran claims hits on vessels in Strait of Hormuz

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified as Iran claimed missile strikes on six vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, including three oil tankers, three naval ships, and a U.S. aircraft carrier. Emergency crews successfully extinguished a fire aboard one damaged tanker. Despite the escalation, U.S. President Donald Trump insisted that the strategic maritime passage remains open, stating that Tehran is experiencing "great difficulties." However, American intelligence reports indicate that commanders within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps feel emboldened by their recent operations, raising fears among officials in Washington of further military escalation. The ongoing strikes follow earlier joint military actions and a fragile ceasefire memorandum, leaving maritime traffic and security in the region highly precarious.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.